Chevalier is a work of fiction in the science fiction and action subgenres. It is intended for the general adult reading audience and was penned by author Scott Warren as the first installment of the War Horses series. In this thrilling futuristic war novel, we meet our protagonist Rande ‘Vandal’ VanDelle, who believes that his position as a tank mechanic will offer him a quieter life in the field of battle. So when the threat of fellow soldiers defecting is suddenly combined with Vandal being assigned the oldest upright tank of the company to contend with, the stakes are suddenly far higher than they’ve ever been before.

The “upright tank” is an interesting concept that I’ve seen in a lot of different science fiction media, but I especially enjoyed the depth that author Scott Warren gives this wacky and unpredictable contraption to make a really challenging and exciting dynamic for a war story. The craftsmanship around Vandal offers a lot of realism to the character, showcasing his flaws and mistakes in some spectacular and harrowing moments, as well as the grit and determination that he possesses to keep chasing victory and survival. Walking this fine line in the narrative structure is no mean feat, but Warren manages it beautifully with skillful dialogue that undercuts the more serious overtones of the overarching war story. When this is overlaid with the gorgeously cinematic and politically complex science fiction worldbuilding, a triumphant series opener is born, and I’d heartily recommend Chevalier to fans of military and action-packed sci-fi novels everywhere.

Chevalier by Scott Warren is the first book in his War Horses science fiction series. Set on the planet Tyunta, it introduces a talented and devoted young maintenance operative nicknamed Vandal who is a tank mechanic in the Chevaliers Private Cavalry. The Chevaliers are a mercenary unit providing security on the planet, which is caught in a power struggle between two rival forces. Their upright tanks are powerful weapons piloted by a human “jockey” through a nerve-intercept interface. Vandal has no wish to leave the maintenance bay and become a jockey but is forced into that role. With limited simulator training and assigned the oldest upright tank in the inventory, Vandal finds himself in combat facing an overwhelming enemy attack with larger and more powerful weapons. Will he survive?

In Chevalier, Scott Warren gives us an exciting action-packed tale that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The narrative is highly descriptive and moves smoothly through the stirring plot. You’ll see, smell, and taste the action. The characters are well developed and relatable. Told in the first person, the plot unfolds through Vandal’s eyes, but other characters play major roles in his adventure, and the combat scenes are thrilling. I appreciated two themes that Warren develops throughout the story: one is the issue of war through the eyes of a mercenary who may fight an enemy one day but for whom he may work later, while the other is the deeply felt devotion someone can have for his or her craft or trade. I look forward to Book 2.